Power issues - Hi-Lo camper travel trailer forum

czr1760 · 03-02-2014, 07:36 AM

I have a 1998 31what hilo that's been giving me power issues. When I picked it up, the battery was dead, so I installed a new one to no help. Before realizing that the manual reset was tripped, I jumped the capacitor so that I could use the tongue jack. Was able to haul to my spot, disconnect & raise the camper. NOW here's the problem, I reset the capacitor & removed the jumper, set up & plugged into 30amp 110v, but only my lights, radio & heater work. No outlets, a.c., fridge, hot water. If i switch to 12v i get nothing. No breakers are tripped and all fuses I can find are ok. I did find one gfi tripped that will not reset, but could that cause all these issues? Please help as my daughter is on here way and supposed to be staying for over several months.

notanlines · 03-02-2014, 08:07 AM

I would start by heading to the hardware store and replacing the GFI. You may find that it actually does control all your outlets. It is the cheapest way to start. Be sure to keep us up on your progress.

czr1760 · 03-02-2014, 09:22 AM

I'm gonna run to Lowe's and pick 2 new gfi outlets. It's almost as if im only able to run 12v items, even though im plugged into 110v. Plus my battery meter is showing me sitting at 12 volts & thats with a new battery yesterday. Ugh...I'll keep you posted.

czr1760 · 03-02-2014, 11:38 AM

Swapped out gfi, and that didn't help. Battery meter was showing battery @ 11.5. Fuses in converter look good. Converter was plugged into outlet under stove. I plugged converter into live extension cord & battery meter shot up toto 13. Really makes me think that i am actually running off battery power, even though im plugged into 110v. And even more curious is when I flip my toggle switch from 110 to 12v I have nothing, other than ability to lift.

czr1760 · 03-02-2014, 02:15 PM

After ripping apart half my camper, I found out the problem. On a hunch I rolled out my 30amp extension cord and was able to reach another power box... sure enough everything is fine. I informed the owner of the campground and she said shed have the original pole looked at. Thanks for the help.

notanlines · 03-02-2014, 02:40 PM

Now you know how I felt after most of the regulars on this board told me to check the fuse on my refrigerator......Yes, check the ENTIRE fuse. All's well that ends well.

RichR · 03-02-2014, 03:49 PM

That's good to hear that you found the problem. A lesson many of us learn it is to start at the power source and work your way toward the problem area. That holds true whether it starts at the pedestal or at the tow vehicle power outlet. A simple multimeter is a valuable tool to keep handy for times like this.